Study Abroad

Founded by Walter Gropius, the core objective of the Bauhaus School was to reimagine the material world to reflect the unity of all the arts. This radical concept, combining elements of both fine arts and design education, introduced an interdisciplinary education that encouraged collaboration, experimentation, innovation and the exploration of new materials and techniques – a revolutionary design movement that redefined design and artistic production and helped to reshape modern creativity. This course offers an in-depth exploration of the Bauhaus movement and its profound influence across the six major disciplines at MIAD – Communication Design, Illustration, Product Design, Interior Architecture, Fine Arts and Fashion Design.

The program will explore Weimar, Dessau and Berlin, the three German cities where the Bauhaus thrived and established its artistic legacy from 1919-1933. Students will critically engage with the foundational principles of the Bauhaus: clarity, simplicity, and functionality, and uncover how these ideas have shaped modern art and design, establishing a framework for contemporary creative practices. Discussions and readings will also fostering a deeper understanding of the movement along with a greater understanding of how the political, intellectual, and social environment contributed to its success.

Students will participate in a reflective journal and sketchbook to document their thoughts and observations during the program. Collaborative group projects will allow students to explore specific aspects of the Bauhaus movement ensuring that diverse perspectives are represented and emphasizing the interdisciplinary nature of the course and the movement itself. Students will also benefit and discover relevancy to their own art/design practice as they engage in writing, research, and studio explorations in this course.

MIAD NEED-BASED Study Abroad Grants: A small number of need-based grant awards will be available to eligible students. Students must have a minimum 3.0 GPA, no business office holds, be in good academic standing and a current full-time MIAD student to apply and receive the grant. Grant awards for $500 – $750 will be based on a combination of factors including need, quality of written statement of intent, with consideration of student’s cumulative GPA. If a student is awarded a MIAD need-based study abroad grant, this award will be credited to course/travel fee owed AFTER deposit. Awards are contingent upon the program running. Students must return signed acceptance/ commitment letter for the program and grant award. Students interested in being considered for this year’s Study Abroad Need-Based Grant just need to check the appropriate box on the application form.

Financial Aid: Aid may be available to qualified students. Interested students should inquire at the MIAD Financial Aid office ASAP to determine individual eligibility. Students should be aware that financial aid cannot be distributed any earlier than 5-7 days before the start of the official summer term. Students should plan other means to cover deposit and plane tickets. Students confirmed eligible for financial aid will be able to apply that towards the balance owed. (Financial Aid CANNOT be used for deposit.)